The high water levels prompted Brookfield to activate its emergency plan with operators on site to monitor its status should the dam be compromised.

"They've assured me that the dam structure itself is sound," said Michael LeCuyer, St. Lawrence County Emergency Services director.

For now, the concrete dam appears to be holding its own, but the Oswegatchie River is continuing to rise.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the county, flood waters from the surging west branch of the St. Regis River forced the closure of the State Route 420 extension bridge.

Volunteer firefighters worked tirelessly to fill sandbags to help prevent the rising river waters from flooding several homes.

"We've got about half a dozen houses in the immediate area that are in danger of flooding. Right now we're trying to prevent major loss of anyone's personal belongings," said Ryan McCuin of the Brasher-Winthrop Fire Department.

As sandbags were placed around Jackie Cayea's Winthrop home to protect it from the severe floodwaters, all she could do was hope the family wasn't evacuated and any damage would be minor.

"Scary. I can't even put into words what it's been like," said Cayea.

A section of County Route 53 outside Brasher Falls looked more like a river itself than a highway after being covered by several feet of water that also threatened a National Grid power substation.

A state of emergency remains in effect in St. Lawrence County as residents are being advised to be aware of river conditions while motorists are being advised to turn around if they encounter water over any roadway.